Radical expressions and equations involve the use of radicals, which are mathematical symbols used to represent roots. The most common radical is the square root (√), but there are also cube roots (∛), fourth roots (∜), and so on. These radicals are used to express the inverse operations of exponentiation.

In radical expressions, the radical symbol (√) is placed in front of a number or a variable to indicate taking the root of that number or variable. For example, √9 represents the square root of 9, which is 3. Similarly, ∛64 represents the cube root of 64, which is 4. Radical equations, on the other hand, involve expressions with radicals that are set equal to a value or to another expression.

Simplifying radicals is an essential skill in working with these expressions and equations. It involves finding the simplest form of a radical by simplifying the root and reducing any perfect square factors. For instance, √18 can be simplified as √(9 * 2), which further simplifies to 3√2.

By understanding the basics of radical expressions and equations, you will be equipped to tackle more complex problems and explore further applications in mathematics and beyond!